GE Healthcare Guidance on WannaCry Ransomware

Overview and background

GE Healthcare is closely monitoring and taking action to address an ongoing ransomware campaign known as WannaCry, WCry, or Wanna Decryptor, targeting Windows-based systems globally. The WannaCry “ransomware” (a form of malware) propagates either through phishing campaigns or through the Microsoft vulnerability MS17-010 SMBv1. Once WannaCry enters a device, it encrypts the data on the device and demands a bitcoin ransom in exchange for releasing the data and unlocking the device.

GE Healthcare initial response

GE Healthcare has activated a cross-functional engineering, cybersecurity, services and technology team to undertake a full review of all products. Our teams around the world are continuously monitoring the situation to ensure customers and their services teams have access to the most up-to-date information available in a highly dynamic situation.

Microsoft patch

Microsoft has issued a patch for all currently supported versions of Microsoft Windows, including Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows Server 2008 through 2016. Additionally, since the attack, Microsoft has issued patches for Windows XP, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2003. Additional information regarding Microsoft’s support of this security incident can be found HERE.

What to expect?

GE Healthcare is committed to supporting our customers to maintain their systems and products in a cyber-secure manner. If customers have been affected by the ransomware, or if they have concerns about a particular product, they are encouraged to contact their GE Service representative or their GE Service Call Center. Although each customer has unique circumstances, as a general matter, for any device with a Microsoft version for which Microsoft has issued a patch (see above), support is likely to consist of the installation of a Microsoft-approved patch that is either installed by the customer or by our services team.

We are creating practical guidance for the installation process and distributing this guidance through GE Healthcare Service and Call Center teams for use in responding to customer questions.

GE Healthcare is providing Services representatives with ongoing updates from Microsoft and industry bodies to ensure customers receive the most current information. We are committed to partnering with our customers and other stakeholders to implement robust product security measures to protect the integrity of patient care around the world.